UFN 33: White Talks “Shogun’s” Future

There’s no denying the fact that Mauricio “Shogun” Rua has competed in a lot of huge fights throughout his decorated career, but one could argue that his scrap tomorrow with James Te Huna at UFC FN 33 is the biggest. After all, Rua is coming off back-to-back losses for the first time in his career, and if he loses to Te Huna, it will raise serious questions as to what the future holds for the former light-heavyweight champ.

UFC boss man Dana White appeared on the latest edition of “UFC Tonight” and here is some of what he had to say about tomorrow’s fight, and what’s on the line (comments via MMA Junkie.com):

“This is a huge fight for both of these guys,” White said. “Obviously for ‘Shogun’ Rua, to be in this position right now fighting a guy like Te Huna – this is the fight of Te Huna’s life. If Te Huna wins this fight, it catapults him into the Top 10, everybody knows his name and everybody’s going to want to see what’s next for him.

“And yes, if ‘Shogun’ loses this fight, I probably would have that (retirement) conversation with him.”

One pre-fight storyline which has been tied to Rua, is whether or not the 32 year-old might consider moving to 185 after UFNC FN33, just as Lyoto Machida did not long ago. “Shogun” has relayed it could be a possibility, but he has also cautioned that he’s not sure at this juncture if he can make the weight. When asked if he’s talked to Rua about the possible move, White stated:

“I have not, but it’s not a bad idea,” White said. “If he lost this fight, I’d be interested in giving him a run at 185.”

As far as Rua-Te Huna, it’s interesting to see that there doesn’t seem to be a consensus amongst the oddsmakers as to who is going to win the fight. Hopefully it’s an entertaining bout.

UFC FN 33 will be hosted by the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Australia, and the main card will be broadcast on FOX Sports 1.